Liverpool pupils blast off for special book reading

Liverpool schoolchildren were treated to a sneak preview of a new science and innovation story based here in the city.

Pupils from LIPA Primary School listened intently as author Natalie Reeves-Billing read Animates Liverpool, a tale of a team of seven animal inventors who crash land in the Knowledge Quarter Liverpool innovation district and embark on an adventure to explore the different innovations that will get them back into space.

They then enjoyed a fun drawing and creative design workshop, hosted by illustrator Stuart Harrison, at John Lewis department store in Liverpool One.

The book, created by KQ Liverpool under exclusive licence with Connected Places Catapult, is designed to introduce young children to the concept of innovation and inspire them to understand the various science, technology and innovation careers on their doorstep.

Rachael Stevens, head of partnerships at Knowledge Quarter Liverpool, said:

“Animates Liverpool is a unique way of engaging young children in the ideas of invention and creativity. Knowledge Quarter Liverpool abounds with bright minds making incredible discoveries and we hope the book allows them to see what their own future might hold.

“The children had a great time hearing all about the adventures of the Animates in their home city and creating their own versions of Bam Bamboo, the space panda. It was wonderful to see the spark of innovation coming to life in a new generation of pioneers.